Morning Serenity at West Lake

As the sun rises over Hangzhou, the city awakens to a day of exploration and cultural immersion. Begin your weekend with a visit to the iconic West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site that embodies the essence of Hangzhou’s natural beauty and cultural richness. The Serene Nature Day Tour offers a perfect start to your day, with availability from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This tour allows you to connect with nature as you embark on a tranquil 35-minute boat ride across the lake, surrounded by lush greenery and historic pagodas. The morning’s clear skies and mild temperatures create an ideal setting for this peaceful journey.

As you glide across the water, take in the sights of the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon and the Broken Bridge, each with its own cultural significance. The tour also includes a visit to Guo’s Garden, a traditional private garden that offers a glimpse into the leisurely lifestyle of Hangzhou’s past. Here, you can relax and enjoy the beauty of Song-era tea houses and pavilions, a perfect spot for photography and reflection.

Reviewed at 2019-09-26: Great tour - Wonderful tour guide who spent a lot of time explaining everything to us and showing us the most beautiful sights. If you’re looking for a friendly and very knowledgeable guide, please look for Tommy, you won’t be disappointed!

Afternoon Delights at Longjing Tea Fields

As the day progresses, the Serene Nature Day Tour continues with a visit to the Longjing Green Tea Plantation and Village. Known for producing China’s most famous variety of green tea, Longjing, this area offers breathtaking natural scenery and a chance to immerse yourself in the local tea culture. The afternoon’s overcast skies provide a comfortable backdrop for exploring the tea fields and sampling the local brews.

At a local tea grower’s house, you can learn to prepare traditional delicacies such as beggar’s chicken and Westlake carp fish in vinegar sauce. If cooking isn’t your forte, simply sit back and savor the flavors of these authentic dishes. The tour also includes a leisurely stroll along the Bamboo-lined Path in Yunqi, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of towering bamboo groves and a murmuring stream.

Reviewed at 2018-07-27: Amazing day with Bonnie - Our guide, Bonnie was extremely knowledgeable, spoke excellent English, and was very informative answering lots of questions from a group of curious college faculty. West Lake was gorgeous, We enjoyed the walk around the grounds and boat trip on the Lake.

Evening Strolls on Hefang Street

Conclude your day with a visit to Qinghefang Old Street, a vibrant area that captures the essence of historic Hangzhou. The Serene Nature Day Tour wraps up with a stop here, where you can experience the lifestyle of Old Hangzhou through its well-preserved buildings, unique boutiques, and local cuisine. The evening’s mild temperatures and gentle breeze make it a perfect time for a leisurely stroll.

As you wander through the street, take the opportunity to shop for unique souvenirs and sample local snacks. The street’s lively atmosphere and rich history provide a fitting end to a day of cultural exploration. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Hangzhou’s blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Reviewed at 2017-11-26: A Wonderful Day! - Our family of four recently spent a full day on a private tour on Hangzhou with Sharon. We’ve been on tours before and may never want to go on anything but a private tour again. Sharon was like a good family friend showing us sites and personalizing our trip to our needs yet sharing details about Hangzhou that we just couldn’t have known without her help.